Bayern squad and history lured Guardiola

Pep Guardiola has revealed that Bayern Munich's rich history and the quality of its current squad were the main reasons for him accepting the Bavarians' offer.

The 42-year-old signed a three-year deal with Bayern back in January as he replaces Jupp Heynckes at the helm starting this summer, and he's keen to replicate last season's results - which saw the club win a historic treble - in the years to come.

"I decided to join Bayern because of the players and the club's history. They're one of the best teams in the world," Guardiola said at a press conference on Monday. "I am ready to return to football. This is a new challenge for me. My time at Barcelona was wonderful, but I needed a new challenge. Bayern Munich have given me that opportunity.

"I have to accept that people will make comparisons [to 2012-13]. A coach is always under a lot of pressure at a big team. I realize that's the case here as well, but I'm happy to take on that responsibility. I take charge of a team that's had an amazing season. They won four titles, the treble and the German Super Cup"

Much has been said about whether Guardiola will try to replicate Barcelona's style with the the Bundesliga giant, but he has made it clear that everything depends on the players at his disposal.

"Barcelona players have different qualities to those of Bayern. I need to adjust to the players, not the other way around," he explained. "Football belongs to the players, not to the coach. The fans come to the Allianz Arena to watch the players play rather than because of me.

"I will have to adapt. The formation I use does not really matter."

The Spaniard also went on to praise his predecessor Jupp Heynckes and stated that the 68-year-old set the bar pretty high.

"Bayern won all titles that they could win last season. Expectations are very high. I can only try to keep up the same high level the team had under Heynckes," he said of the club's former boss. "I have not been in touch with him yet, but I hope to do so shortly. His opinions means a lot to me.

"I have a lot of respect for his performances, not just for what he achieved last season, but for his entire career. I feel honored to be his successor."